The second annual Madison College Pickleball Championships brought together players, supporters and the local community for a day of competition and fundraising, with all proceeds going towards reducing financial barriers for Madison College students.
Held at Pickleball Kingdom in Sun Prairie, the indoor event featured Dream Doubles, an intermediate scratch tournament and a series of mini-game stations, combining competition with community engagement.
Madison College Director of Student Engagement and Community Impact Jimmy Cheffen said the tournament is about much more than winning matches.
“This is our second time doing something like this, and I like it because it’s a pickleball party,” Cheffen said.
“It’s about community, and like I said, it’s all for the students.”
“This is helping create pathways for them, and it’s important for us to give what they need to achieve all their goals.”
The event was organised to support students by helping ease financial challenges while encouraging greater community involvement through sport.
Pickleball Kingdom Managing Partner Raj Kotte praised the response from participants and supporters, describing the fundraiser as a successful initiative.
“Today we had the Madison Area Technical College doing a fundraiser called Dream Doubles,” Kotte said.
“The fundraiser goes towards students that are in need, and it is very exciting.”
“If you look around, they’ve got very interactive stations.”
“And just look at all the people that have come out. This is a great success for MATC’s fundraiser.”
Following the successful event, Pickleball Kingdom confirmed it will continue hosting weekly pickleball activities throughout the summer, providing opportunities for players of all ages and skill levels while helping strengthen the local pickleball community.